‘Golf Cart Project' helps turn driving anxiety into confidence
What began as one man’s effort to help his brother achieve independence has grown into a program that helps people with disabilities and anxiety gain confidence behind the wheel.
The Golf Cart Project, founded by Dennis Rinaldi of One2One Coaching and Consulting in Old Saybrook, offers a low-pressure introduction to driving, using golf carts. The program teaches basic driving skills while building confidence and independence.
Rinaldi said the project was inspired by his late brother, Daniel, who lived with Proteus syndrome, a rare genetic disorder.
“I watched him navigate the obstacles of Proteus syndrome, but also living an independent life on his own,” Rinaldi said.
Rinaldi described Daniel as his best friend, best man, and guiding influence. He said one of his brother’s biggest goals after college was learning to drive.
“He wanted to drive a car; that was his biggest goal post-college,” Rinaldi said.
With the help of family and friends, Rinaldi taught his brother to drive by starting with simple, low-stress experiences and gradually building confidence.
“Keep the stakes low, have some fun, drive down to the beach and it took off from there,” Rinaldi said.
That experience eventually became the Golf Cart Project.
“That’s where the golf cart project came to life,” Rinaldi said.
Today, the program helps individuals with disabilities or anxieties learn the fundamentals of driving in a supportive environment. Lessons include skills such as three-point turns and parallel parking, all at low speeds and with minimal pressure.
“We start slow, and we ramp up,” Rinaldi said.
Rinaldi currently works with 10 clients, some of whom hope to pursue driver’s licenses this summer.
“Part of it is just, this is a mission driven by my heart,” Rinaldi said.
Among those participating is Will Gibson, known as “Captain Will,” who said the experience has helped him learn the basics of driving while spending time with Rinaldi.
“I learn how to drive it, him and I play basketball,” Gibson said.
When asked whether Rinaldi is a good teacher, Gibson’s answer was simple.
“Yes, he and I are buddies,” Gibson said.
Rinaldi said honoring Daniel’s memory remains at the center of the project.
“That is why I do the work I do every day, I take Dan’s spirit and heart into my work,” Rinaldi said.
Rinaldi donates all proceeds from the Golf Cart Project to the Proteus Syndrome Foundation in honor of his brother.
From breaking news and local politics to art exhibitions, live music, high school sports, small businesses, and cultural events, we celebrate the people and places that make Connecticut unique.